Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a test that lets your doctor see detailed pictures of the inside of your body. MRI combines the use of strong magnets and radio waves to form an MRI image.

Before your test

You may need to stop eating or drinking before the test. Each health care facility has its own guidelines on this. It also depends on the type of exam you are having. Ask your health care provider if you should stop eating or drinking before the test.

Ask your provider if you should stop taking any medicine before the test.

You may be asked to remove your makeup. Makeup may contain some metal.

Most MRI tests take 30 to 60 minutes. Depending on the type of MRI you are having, the test may take longer. Give yourself extra time to check in.

MRI uses strong magnets. Metal is affected by magnets and can distort the image. The magnet used in MRI can cause metal objects in your body to move. If you have a metal implant, you may not be able to have an MRI unless the implant is certified as MRI safe. People with these implants should not have an MRI:

Ear (cochlear) implants

Certain clips used for brain aneurysms

Certain metal coils put in blood vessels

Most defibrillators

Most pacemakers

Be sure to tell the radiologist or technologist if you:

Have had any previous surgeries

Have a pacemaker, surgical clips, metal plate or pins, an artificial joint, staples or screws, ear (cochlear) implants, or other implants

Wear a medicated adhesive patch

Have metal splinters in your body

Have implanted nerve stimulators or drug-infusion ports

Have tattoos or body piercings. Some tattoo inks contain metal.

Work with metal

Have braces. You must remove any dental work.

Have a bullet or other metal in your body

Also tell the radiologist or technologist if you:

Are pregnant or think you may be

Are afraid of small, enclosed spaces (claustrophobic)

Are allergic to X-ray dye (contrast medium), iodine, shellfish, or any medicines

Have other allergies

Are breastfeeding

Have any serious health problems. This includes kidney disease or a liver transplant. You may not be able to have the contrast material used for MRI.

During your test

You may be asked to wear a hospital gown.

You may be given earplugs to wear if you need them.

You may be injected with a special dye (contrast) that improves the MRI image.

You’ll lie down on a platform that slides into the magnet.

After your test

You can get back to normal activities right away. If you were given contrast, it will pass naturally through your body within a day. You may be told to drink more water or other fluids during this time.

Your doctor will discuss the test results with you during a follow-up appointment or over the phone.